1.25lbfresh jalapeño peppersabout 12 medium; stems on if desired
8ozcream cheese, softened
1.25cupshredded sharp cheddar
6ozcooked bacon, finely chopped
0.25cupchopped green onionsor chives
0.75tspgarlic powder
0.5tsponion powder
0.5tspsmoked paprika
0.5tspkosher saltreduce if bacon is very salty
0.25tspfreshly ground black pepper
1tspfresh lime juiceoptional, for brightness
0.5cuppanko breadcrumbsfor a crisp top
1.5tbspunsalted butter, melted
1tspneutral oilfor greasing rack
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Heat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil, set a rack inside, and brush the rack with oil.
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then chop and let cool.
Halve jalapeños lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and membranes with a small spoon. Wash hands after handling.
Stir cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice until smooth.
Fill each jalapeño half with the mixture, mounding slightly. Arrange on the prepared rack.
Combine panko with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the filled peppers.
Bake until peppers are tender and tops are golden, 16–18 minutes.
Rest 5 minutes before serving so the filling sets slightly.
Notes
Variation: Skip the panko and wrap each filled pepper with half a slice of bacon. Or swap in Monterey Jack for part of the cheddar. Air fryer option: cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until browned.Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; reheat at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to crisp the tops again.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Bacon-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.